Construction method and appartaus

ABSTRACT

A multi-story structure having a flooring system and method for installing the flooring system in the multi-story structure. The present invention further includes a method of constructing a multi-story structure using the flooring system of the present invention. The flooring system includes a plurality of interconnected layer, including a layer of steel deck. The flooring system is employed throughout the multi-story structure and contributes to an overall lighter weight in construction materials, as well as to a reduction is costs and labor. It is contemplated by the present invention that this flooring system can be employed in any commercial or residential structure having a variety of dimensions and stories.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/477,946, filed on Jun. 13, 2003.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not Applicable.

REFERENCE TO A SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTINGCOMPACT DISK APPENDIX

[0003] Not Applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Generally, the present invention relates to flooring systems ofmulti-story constructions. In particular, the present invention relatesto an apparatus for use as a floor and ceiling system in multi-storystructures, as well and methods for installing and using this apparatus.

[0005] Floor systems for buildings are varied in the types of materialsused and in the configuration of the materials. Materials commonly usedin floor construction are wood, concrete, steel, and a combination ofthese materials.

[0006] Wood floors, while generally lightweight, are combustible and cancontribute to fire spread. Additionally, wood floors are generallyconstructed using joists spaced some distance apart covered with asheathing product such as plywood. The spaces between the floor joistsresult in a work platform that workers can and do fall through, thuscreating a safety hazard.

[0007] Furthermore, multi-story structures such as hotels, apartments,office buildings, and dormitories typically employ concrete and steel asconstruction materials for floor systems. Because of the combustibilityof wood, many building and life-safety codes typically limit the heightof wood-framed buildings to four stories. Therefore, concrete and steelstructural members are often used to construct a building having morethan four stories.

[0008] Although concrete framed floors are noncombustible, they are alsovery heavy. Including heavy floors in multi-story structures increasesthe overall building cost, because more time and expense must be spenton reinforcing the framing of the structure. Not only are heavy floors adetriment to multi-story structures, but also heavy floors are adetriment to most structures in high seismic areas, as the lateral forcegenerated by a structure during an earthquake is directly proportionalto the weight of the structure. Further, construction time for concretestructures can be significant due to the time required for concrete tocure. The complexity associated with the use of concrete as aconstruction material requires highly skilled professionals who are alsohighly compensated, which increases the overall cost of the building.

[0009] Similarly, although steel framed buildings are noncombustible,these buildings require highly skilled labor to erect the structure.Further, the use of steel alone in a floor system typically promoteswhat is termed “web crippling.” As used herein, web crippling refers tothe yielding or buckling of a steel web under a load. Accordingly,concrete reinforcement is often used with the steel to form the floorsof multi-story structures. The combination of steel and concrete againgenerates a heavy floor that is a detriment to multi-story structuresand structures in areas of high seismic activity.

[0010] Traditional systems used in the construction of multi-storystructures that employ concrete and steel materials include precastplank systems, composite concrete deck systems, and open web steel joistsystems. Precast prestressed hollow core concrete slabs or planks aremachine-extruded in long continuous beds and cut into planks based onthe final dimensions needed for the structure. Precast planks are set onwalls by crane and anchored with bent reinforcing bars set into theshear key joint between planks. The joints must then be grouted tocomplete the installation. Accordingly, the handling and setting of theplanks can be time consuming and cumbersome. Further, the use of precastplanks in multi-story structures involves the use of multiple trades,including precast plank manufacturers, precast plank installers,ironworkers for the weld plates, and spray ceiling applicators. Finally,the increased dead weight of the precast planks results in increasedbearing wall, transverse beam and foundation sizing to support theweight. In turn, this increased mass aggravates the seismic bracinganalysis, requiring additional support structures.

[0011] Composite concrete decks typically include metal decks made fromplain or galvanized steel sheet rolled into ribbed profiles for use toform concrete floor slabs. When steel deck is used as part of acomposite design, the deck and concrete act together structurally. Toform this construction, steel deck with “dimples” are formed intovertical flutes to create a physical bond with the concrete that isused. Because these constructions typically lack sufficient depth andstiffness for multi-story structures, the use of composite concretedecks creates shoring and vibration issues. Similar to the use ofprecast planks, increased dead weight of concrete decks, adverselyaffects the bearing walls, beams, foundations and seismic bracing of theconstruction, necessitating additional engineering and supportstructures. Further, to eliminate costly distribution headers, everyother deck flute must align with studs. Continuous steel re-bar isrequired to be centered with the bearing walls to act as a beam capableof transferring the reaction of the intermediate deck flutes to studs.Finally, multiple trades are required to use composite concrete decks inmulti-story units, including deck installers, concrete finishers, anddrywall ceiling contractors.

[0012] The use of open web steel joists, or composite concrete and steeljoists, employs the use of steel joists supporting concrete on a steeldeck or steel pan. An example of such a system includes the HAMBRO®system, which uses sheets of plywood temporarily held between joistswith removable roll bars. In this system, steel mesh is draped over thejoist, and then topped with concrete, bonding it to the top chord andcreating a reinforced composite deck. These systems can be somewhatlighter than plain joists and steel deck combinations, but still requirethe support of a heavy, concrete-based load. Further, the use of joistsfails to provide an immediate work surface when forming a floor andceiling. Heavy distribution headers are required to accommodate theoffset between the studs and the joists. Irregularities can also occurin the concrete as a result of aged plywood, which affects the ceilingand wall installation. Finally, as with the other systems, the use ofopen web steel joists necessitates the use of multiple trades, includingjoist erectors, concrete finishers, deck installers, and drywall ceilingcontractors.

[0013] Accordingly, the use of concrete, and concrete combined withsteel, can be problematic when constructing a multi-story structure, orstructures in high seismic areas. Because the additional height in amulti-story structure can require supporting structural members in adiversity of sizes, the use of concrete creates concerns about theweight, shear, and wind loads as more floors are added. Furthermore, thepositioning of the exterior load bearing walls becomes a significantissue, thus reducing the flexibility in floor plan design.

[0014] Consequently, there exists a need for a system that amelioratesthe time-consuming form preparation and complicated handlingconsiderations typically associated with the use of concrete for thefloors and ceilings of multi-story constructions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The following presents a simplified summary of the invention inorder to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention.This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is notintended to identify key or critical elements of the invention or todelineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to presentsome concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to themore detailed description that is presented later.

[0016] According to its major aspects, and briefly stated, the presentinvention includes a multi-story structure having a flooring system andmethod for installing the flooring system in the multi-story structure.The present invention further includes a method of constructing amulti-story structure using the flooring system of the presentinvention. It is contemplated by the present invention that thisflooring system can be employed in any commercial or residentialstructure having a variety of dimensions and stories. However, thepresent description will focus on low to mid-rise structures.

[0017] The flooring system of the present invention includes a pluralityof layers that are combined to form the floor and ceiling of amulti-story structure. Among these layers is included a layer of steeldeck dimensioned to span from bearing wall to bearing wall of themulti-story structure. As used herein, steel deck refers to a steelsheet that has been formed into a fluted platform, which can bepositioned on transversely extending purlins or beams that are connectedto a building superstructure, such as load bearing walls. The steel deckof the present invention can be dimensioned to span from bearing wall tobearing wall of the multi-story structure.

[0018] In addition to the layer of steel deck, the flooring system caninclude various types of sheathing products to cover the flutes of thesteel deck layer. For example, a layer of plywood can be located on thetop surface of the steel deck layer to form a floor of the multi-storystructure, and a layer of sheet rock can be located on the bottomsurface of the steel deck layer to form a ceiling of the multi-storystructure. Alternatively, the flooring system can include a layer ofcementious material, such as gyp-crete, to add rigidity to the resultingfloor. The flutes of the steel deck can also be coupled with a flute capand then covered with a thin, light cementious topping. Including aU-shaped track along the opposite ends of the steel deck can also beused to reinforce the deck. To this U-shaped track can be attached astiffening element to add additional reinforcement and strength.

[0019] As discussed, the present invention also includes a method ofconstructing a multi-story structure that employs the present flooringsystem. The method includes the steps of providing a multi-story framehaving bearing walls and shear walls, providing a flooring system,installing the flooring system, and finishing the frame of themulti-story system through the use of finishing materials such as sheetrock. Additionally, the flooring system of the present invention canalso be employed when constructing the roof of a multi-story structure.

[0020] The present invention also has industrial applicability, becauseit allows the construction of multi-story structures more quickly andwith less expense. Furthermore, the overall weight of the multi-storystructure becomes reduced without compromising the structural integrityof the structure. This results in additional flexibility in floor plandesigns. Therefore, the use of the present apparatus and method can beused to construct various types of multi-story buildings, such as officebuildings, apartments, and dormitories. Although this invention hasindustrial applicability, it is in no way limited to this application.

[0021] A feature of the present invention is the use of a flooringsystem including a steel deck layer. The dimensions of the steel decklayer contribute to the strength and structural integrity of theflooring system. Accordingly, the use of concrete can be eliminated fromthe flooring system, which significantly reduces the weight of thefloor. Depending on the load to which the flooring system will besubjected, the system can also include a layer of cementious material toreinforce the steel deck layer. However, even when cementious materialsuch as gyp-crete is included in the floor system, the overall weight ofthe floor system is still significantly lower than traditional systems.By providing a noncombustible and lightweight flooring system, thegravity and seismic forces within the multi-story structure aresubstantially reduced. This result creates a safer overall structurethat is more economical to construct.

[0022] Another feature of the present invention is the use of a flooringsystem including a steel deck layer that is roll formed. If the steeldeck layer of the present system is roll formed rather than brakeformed, the floor system can be custom designed with predetermined decklengths and widths, thus eliminating cutting and waste of steel.

[0023] Yet another feature of the present invention is the use of aflooring system having a steel deck layer with covered flutes. If theflutes of the steel deck are covered either by a sheathing layer, or byflute caps, the floor system can immediately become a working platform.Because concrete does not need to be poured and cured over the presentflooring system, the flooring system can provide a continuous, safe,non-combustible working platform upon installation. Even if a cementiouslayer is included to cover the deck layer of the flooring system, thecovering procedure need not occur before additional levels of themulti-story structure are installed. By allowing the construction of theoverall structure to continue independent of the deck coveringoperation, the overall construction speed is increased.

[0024] Still another feature of the present invention is the use of aflooring system that can be prefabricated. Capping the ends of the steeldeck with U-shaped tracks allows for platform framed construction andprefabrication of floor panels. Underlayment may also be pre-attached tofloor panels in a shop setting.

[0025] Another feature of the present invention is the use of floorsystem that includes a steel deck layer that is not combined withconcrete. No specialized skills are required to install the steel decklayer and flooring system. Accordingly, one contractor can essentiallydesign, fabricate, and install the primary frame of the multi-storystructure, as well as the walls, floors, underlayment, roof trusses,sheathing, and wind bracing.

[0026] Yet another feature of the present invention is the use of aflooring system having a steel deck layer with a stiffening member. Forexample, the deck ends can be capped with a U-shaped track section. Tothis track section, can be attached a continuous stiffening elementcomposed of a steel deck section orientated vertically. This verticalorientation can provide a space by which other structural systems haveaccess from one level of the multi-story structure to another levelwithout having to perform substantial preparation procedures such asdrilling deep holes or performing extensive pre-installation surveys.These spaces also provide a space for electrical, mechanical andplumbing systems. Further, this stiffening member is of sufficientstrength to transfer gravity loads from ascending levels in thestructure through the steel deck assembly without crushing the steeldeck. The stiffening of the end track can also be achieved by usingC-stud section orientated vertically at discrete locations aligning withthe load bearing studs, thus allowing the transfer of gravity loadswithout crushing the flooring system.

[0027] Another feature of the present invention is the use of a flooringsystem including a steel deck having ducts. By sealing the flutes of thesteel deck, ducts are created that can be used for a variety ofapplications including the creation air ventilation ducts. Additionalbenefits to the formation of ducts within the floor system are increasedhead clearances, reduced building heights and increased erection time.

[0028] Still another feature of the present invention is the use of aflooring system including a plurality of layers. If the steel deck iscombined with a cementious topping, the result is a noncombustibleflooring system. Accordingly, the system is not limited to the heightrestrictions imposed on combustible wood construction. Further, theflooring system weighs approximately half of a concrete and steelstructure resulting in less seismic and gravity loads even when combinedwith a cementious topping.

[0029] Another feature of the present invention is the use of a methodfor constructing a multi-story structure that employs the presentflooring system. Because of the advantageous features of the presentflooring system, including its dimensions and weight, the method ofconstruction of the multi-story structure includes great flexibility. Inthe construction of the multi-story structure, the flooring system ofthe present invention can be employed in a variety of frames. Forexample, the floor system can be incorporated into either a balloonframed bearing wall structure or a platform bearing wall structure.Additionally, the roofs constructed for the multi-story structure canalso be diverse, including either flat roofs or pitched roofs. Moreover,the location and make up of the bearing walls, and exterior and interiorshear walls of the multi-story structure can also vary depending onpurpose of the multi-story structure.

[0030] Yet another feature of the present invention includes the use ofa multi-story structure having a lightweight flooring system combinedwith light gauge steel framed bearing walls that will allow for reducedseismic forces, non-combustibility, quick erection times with lowskilled labor forces, and the ability to transfer gravity loads throughstiffened bearing interfaces. Further, by providing a solid workplatform, other structural systems within the multi-story structure caninterface more easily.

[0031] Still another feature of the present invention is the use of amulti-story structure having a flooring system and bearing wallassemblies that provide a one to two hour fire rating, which allows forincreased building heights and floor areas.

[0032] Yet another feature of the present invention is the use of amulti-story structure having a roof that employs the steel deck layer ofthe flooring system. By installing the roof trusses spaced 4 feet OCinstead of the traditional 2 feet OC, costs are decreased. Generally,the labor savings in the fabrication and erection offset the additionper truss material price and the cost difference of providing steel deckinstead of traditional plywood sheathing.

[0033] Yet another feature of the present invention is the use of amulti-story structure having a modified top track to support floor androof loads over openings in the structure up to 8 feet wide, thuseliminating traditional boxed stud headers. Eliminating the boxed headeralso negates shoulder studs at the jamb along with time-consuminginterconnections.

[0034] Still another feature of the present invention is the use of amulti-story structure having wall-to-wall balloon framing. This framingsystem facilitates the alignment of studs and shear wall posts, becausebolts connecting posts between shear wall frames do not have to passthrough a joist cavity.

[0035] Yet another feature of the present invention is the use ofdiaphragm rated sheathing on the shear walls of the multi-storystructure. This sheathing negates the issues plaguing diagonal flatstrap assemblies. Other issues eliminated by this feature includeexpensive strap splicing, shop attachment details, strap looseningoccurring anytime after the wall is fabricated, and the unsightlybulging drywall associated with attempting to cover thicker diagonalstraps crossing over the face of the shear walls.

[0036] Other features and advantages of the present invention will beapparent to those skilled in the art from a careful reading of theDetailed Description of the Invention presented below and accompanied bythe drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] In the drawings:

[0038]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a multi-story structure accordingto an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039]FIG. 2 is a floor plan view of a multi-story structure accordingto an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0040]FIG. 3 is a front view of the framework of a multi-story structureaccording to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0041]FIG. 4 is a floor plan view of a multi-story structure accordingto an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0042]FIG. 5 is a front view of the framework of a multi-story structureaccording to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0043]FIG. 6 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0044]FIG. 7 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0045]FIG. 8 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0046]FIG. 9 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0047]FIG. 10 is a front view of a flooring system of a multi-storystructure according to an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

[0048]FIG. 11 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0049]FIG. 12 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0050]FIG. 13 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0051]FIG. 14 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0052]FIG. 15A is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0053]FIG. 15B is a side view of a flooring system of a multi-storystructure according to an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

[0054]FIG. 15C is a top view of a flooring system of a multi-storystructure according to an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

[0055]FIG. 16A is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0056]FIG. 16B is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0057]FIG. 16C is a perspective view of a stiffening member of aflooring system of a multi-story structure according to an alternativeembodiment of the present invention;

[0058]FIG. 17A is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0059]FIG. 17B is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0060]FIG. 17C is a top view of a flooring system of a multi-storystructure according to an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

[0061]FIG. 18A is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0062]FIG. 18B is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0063]FIG. 18C is a top view of a flooring system of a multi-storystructure according to an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

[0064]FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0065]FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a flute cap of a flooringsystem of a multi-story structure according to an alternative embodimentof the present invention.

[0066]FIG. 21 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0067]FIG. 22 is a sectional detailed view of a flooring system of amulti-story structure according to an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0068] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the present invention includes amulti-story structure 10 having a flooring system 12, a framing system13, and a roof assembly 15. Although the following description willfocus on a low to mid-rise structure, such as a three-story structurehaving multiple adjacent rooms on each story, it is contemplated by thepresent invention that many variations in the number of stories and inthe floor plans of the multi-story structure 10 can be employed.Therefore, the present invention is in no way limited to a three-storystructure.

[0069]FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary floor plan of the multi-storystructure 10. This floor plan is more suited for multi-story structures10 having flat roofs (shown in FIG. 3). As shown, the multi-storystructure 10 includes a framing system 13 having a plurality of interiorand exterior shear walls 14, 14′, load bearing walls 16, and non-loadbearing walls 18. These walls form adjacent rooms 22 that can be usedfor residential or commercial purposes. In the case the flat roofs areincluded in the multi-story structure 10, the roof can include theflooring system 12 as will be described shortly. To achieve a minimum2/4:12 roof pitch, tapered insulation is installed over level decking.Alternatively, the deck assembly is pitched and insulation of uniformthickness is installed. Stepping the height of a common bearing wall maybe required to assure that the top of the wall does not extend above thedeck bearing points.

[0070] A front view of an embodiment of the multi-story structure 10 isillustrated in FIG. 3. As shown, the multi-story structure 10 caninclude corridors 24, which have corridor headers 26. Preferably, thecorridor headers 26 include tube headers that are supported by studposts 28. A feature of the present invention is the use of a modifiedheader to support floor and roof loads over openings in the structure10, such as corridors up to 8 feet wide, thus eliminating traditionalboxed stud headers. Eliminating the boxed header also negates shoulderstuds at the jamb along with time-consuming interconnections.

[0071] Another feature of the present invention is the use of theframing system 12 having shear walls 14, 14′, that contribute to thestrength of the multi-story structure 10. As shown in FIG. 3, theframing system 13 can include any traditional system for framing walls,such as a steel frame 30 having a plurality of steel studs 32 that areconnected to top and bottom tracks 34 for support. However, other typesof walls, such as masonry walls and wood stud walls, can be employed inthe present invention. Shear strength can be provided to this framingsystem 13 by facing interior partitions with ½″ gypsum drywall on eachside of the interior shear walls 14 at lighter load locations, such asthe upper levels of the multi-story structure 10. At the higher loadlocations, such as the lower levels of the multi-story structure 10,X-braced strap assemblies 36 can be provided in the interior shear walls14. For exterior shear walls 14′, shear strength can be provided byfacing these walls on the exterior with {fraction (7/16)}″ OSB or{fraction (15/32)}″ plywood sheathing and ½″ thick gypsum drywall on theinterior face of the walls at the lighter load locations. At the higherload locations, the exterior shear walls 14′ can be provided withX-braced strap assemblies 36.

[0072]FIGS. 4 and 5 show an alternative embodiment of the multi-storystructure 10. The main distinction between the alternative embodimentand the embodiment previously discussed is that the roof assembly 15discloses a pitched roof rather than a flat roof. In the case pitchedroofs are included, steel trusses can be spaced 48″OC with perimeterbearing walls and interior corridor wall supports as required.

[0073] Additionally, the location of the corridor headers 26 aredistinct between the flat roof option and the pitched roof optionmulti-story structure 10. As shown, in the floor plan of FIG. 2, thecorridor headers 26 transverse the corridors 24. However, in the floorplan of FIG. 4, the corridor headers 26 lie parallel to the corridors24.

[0074] The remaining figures and discussion focus on the detailedspecification of the features of the flooring system 12 and how thisflooring system is interconnected with the framing system 13 and theroofing assembly 15 of the multi-story structure 10. A feature of thepresent invention is the use of flooring system 12 that can be used asboth the floor the adjacent an upper story and the ceiling of theadjacent lower story of the multi-story structure 10. FIG. 6 illustratesan embodiment of the flooring system 12. The flooring system 12 is shownin detail from a section of the multi-story structure 10 in which twoadjacent rooms 22 are interconnected by load bearing walls 16. In thisembodiment, the load bearing walls 16 include balloon framing. Theflooring system 12 includes a plurality of layers. In these layers isincluded a layer of steel deck 40. Although dimensions may varydepending on the strength required by the layer of steel deck 40, thesteel deck layer 40 can have a depth of approximately 7½″. The span ofthe steel deck layer 40 can also vary. Preferably, the steel deck layer40 spans from bearing wall 14 to bearing wall 14 of each room in themulti-story structure 10.

[0075] Above the steel deck layer 40 is included a layer of sheathingmaterial 42, such as plywood or glass fiber reinforced cement boardunderlayment. Below the layer of steel deck 40 is included a layer ofceiling material 70, such as gypsum board. Alternatively, furringchannels 71 are located directly below the layer of steel deck 40, andthe layer of ceiling 70 is located below the furring channels 71. Theselayers are all interconnected by fasteners 90, including any number ofmechanical fasteners such as nails, screws, nuts, bolts, etc. Becausethe bearing walls 16 are balloon framed in this embodiment, thesheathing layer 42 of one adjacent room 22 can cover the top of thebearing walls 16 and form the sheathing layer 42 of the other adjacentroom 22. Accordingly, the flooring system 12 can be level with thebearing walls 14. Further, by extending the sheathing layer 42 over thebearing walls 14 results in shear transfer and verifies bearing strengthbetween walls.

[0076] To increase the support of the flooring system 12, the bearingwall 14 is provided with an oversized top track 50. As used herein,“oversized top track” refers to a track having approximately 8″ flangesand approximately a 6¼″ web. Preferably, the flanges of this top track50 have a depth that is at least equal to or greater than the depth ofthe steel deck layer 40. The oversized track 50 provides a continuousfire break between adjacent floors while serving as a header overopenings in the wall 14. To this oversized top track 50 is connected aledger angle 52. Although the dimensions of the ledger angle 52 can varydepending on the size of the steel deck layer 40, preferably, the ledgerangle 52 is continuous along the bearing wall 14, and includes 2.5″×2.5″projecting legs 49 if the steel deck layer 40 does not exceed a span ofapproximately 16 feet between bearing wall 14 to bearing wall 14. Thesteel deck layer 40 is supported by and connected to this ledger angle52. Again, the interconnections between the features of the flooringsystem 12 are made by any number of mechanical fasteners.

[0077] In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the oversized toptrack 50 is substituted with regular sized top track 56. Additionally,fire safing 58 is applied between the ends of the steel deck layer 40.

[0078]FIG. 8 illustrates another alternative embodiment of the flooringsystem 12 and how it is connected to the bearing walls 14 of themulti-story structure 10. As before, the flooring system 12 includessteel deck layer 40 that is between sheathing layer 42 and ceiling layer70. Alternatively, furring channels 71 are located between the layer ofsteel deck 40 and the layer of ceiling 70. Additionally, the steel decklayer 40 in this embodiment is attached to a Z-shaped deck support 60rather than the ledger angle 52. As shown, the Z-shaped deck support 60is dimensioned to receive the top of the bearing wall 14 and the bottomof the steel deck layer 40. Preferably, the deck support 60 is connectedto the regular sized top track 56, as well as to the bottom of the steeldeck layer 40 by fasteners.

[0079]FIG. 9 illustrates the flooring system 12 in detail from a sectionof the multi-story structure 10 including the corridor 24. As shown, thesteel deck layer 40 of the flooring system 12 is connected to thecorridor header 26 through the use of ledger angle 52. Similarly to theadjacent rooms 22, the sheathing layer 42 can cover the corridor header26 and connect the floor across the corridor 24. The ledger angle 52 canbe connected to the corridor header 26 by welding, riveting, orfastening.

[0080] An alternative embodiment of flooring system 12 is shown in FIGS.10-12. The multi-story structure 10 can also include bearing walls 14that are platform framed. Because in platform framing, the steel decklayer 40 becomes subjected to the load of the bearing walls 14,stiffeners must be employed to alleviate the potential for webcrippling. As illustrated, the platform framing system 13 includes topand bottom bearing wall studs 4 that sit in and are connected to top andbottom bearing wall tracks 3. Between the top and bottom bearing walltracks 3 is located the flooring system 12. Similar to the flooringsystem 12 previously described, there is included steel deck layer 40between sheathing layer 42 and ceiling layer 70. Alternatively, thesheathing layer 42 can include two layers of materials wherein thebottom layer 43, which is connected to the steel deck layer 40 is alayer of plywood underlayment, and wherein the top layer 45 is a layerof gyp-crete topping. If a two-material sheathing layer 42 is included,the bottom layer of plywood underlayment 43 can extend under the bearingwall track 3 to connect the floors of the adjacent rooms 22. However,the gyp-crete top layer 45 preferably does extend below the top bearingwall stud 4. Alternatively, the gyp-crete layer can be substituted withliquid applied flooring. The ceiling layer 70 of the flooring system 12is similar to other embodiments, and can include either a layer ofgypsum ceiling board, or a combination of furring channels 71 and alayer of gypsum ceiling board.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 12, the steel deck layer 40 is reinforced byconnecting the ends of the steel deck layer 40 to deck tracks 2. Betweenthese deck tracks 2 is included a deck stiffener 5. Although variousdimensions of the deck stiffener 5 can be employed, preferably, thestiffener 5 includes a vertically oriented fluted steel deck, whereinthe height of the vertically oriented fluted deck is approximately equalto the depth of the steel deck layer 40. The deck tracks 2 and thestiffener 5 are interconnected by a variety of mechanical fasteners.

[0082] An alternative embodiment of the flooring system 12 of thepresent invention is illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14. Similar to thepreviously described platform framing system 13, top and bottom bearingwall studs 4 sit in and are connected to top and bottom bearing walltracks 3. Between the top and bottom bearing wall tracks 3 is locatedthe flooring system 12. Again, steel deck layer 40 is located betweensheathing layer 42 and ceiling layer 70. However, sheathing layer 42includes sound reduction mat 55 as the bottom layer, and liquid appliedflooring 53 as the top layer. Preferably, neither of these layersextends beneath the top bearing wall track 3. Alternatively, the liquidapplied flooring layer can be substituted with a gyp-crete layer. Theceiling layer 70 of the flooring system 12 is similar to otherembodiments, and can include either a layer of gypsum ceiling board, ora combination of furring channels 71 and a layer of gypsum ceilingboard.

[0083] Another distinction with this alternative embodiment is thatthere are included two deck stiffeners 5. As shown in FIG. 14, each decktrack 2 is connected to a deck stiffener 5. Space is left between thesedeck stiffeners 5. By including this void between the deck stiffeners 5,the multi-story structure 10 can be further reinforced through theinstallation of vertical shear wall tension members 51. As illustratedin FIGS. 15A-15C, these shear wall tension members 51 can be includedwithin the framing system 13 of the multi-story structure 10.

[0084]FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate another alternative embodiment of thepresent flooring system 12. In the case that the flooring system 12 isjust below the roofing assembly 15 of the multi-story structure 10, onlybottom bearing walls 4 and bearing wall tracks 3 are included. Similarto the other embodiments, flooring system 12 includes steel deck layer40 between sheathing layer 42 and ceiling layer 70. Sheathing layer 42may include a layer of liquid-applied flooring 53 and a sound reductionmat layer 55. Further, ceiling layer 70 may include a layer of gypsumceiling board, or a combination of furring channels 71 and a layer ofgypsum ceiling board. A distinction with this embodiment from thepreviously described embodiment is that the deck stiffener 5 has beenreplaced by deck tracks including a stamped stiffener feature. As shown,the deck track stiffeners 5′ are shaped similar to deck tracks 2, exceptalong the web of the deck track is included vertically alignedindentions 7, which are grooved.

[0085] Yet another embodiment of the flooring system 12 of the presentinvention is illustrated in FIGS. 17A-17C. In this view, the flooringsystem 12 is shown in connection with load bearing sidewalls. As shown,the flooring system 12 again includes steel deck layer 40 combined withsheathing layer 42 and ceiling layer 70. Sheathing layer 42 can includea layer of liquid applied flooring 53 or, alternatively, gyp-cretetopping, as well as a layer of sound reduction mat 55. The ceiling layercan include a layer of gypsum ceiling board, or a combination of furringchannels 71 and a layer of gypsum ceiling board. The steel deck layer 40is connected to deck track 2, and the deck track 2 is connected to oneside of deck track stiffener 5. Because this perspective is of asidewall of the multi-story structure 10, the opposing side of the deckstiffener 5 is connected to a closure plate 73. Similar to thepreviously described deck stiffener 5, the deck stiffener 5 used in thisapplication can be a fluted steel deck that is vertically aligned.However, the ribs of the fluted steel deck can be wider on the side ofthe stiffener 5 that is connected to deck track 3 if additionalreinforcement is required.

[0086]FIGS. 18A-18C illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of theflooring system 12 taken from the view of a load-bearing sidewall of themulti-story structure 10. Similar to the previously describedembodiments, the flooring system 12 again includes steel deck layer 40combined with sheathing layer 42 and ceiling layer 70. Sheathing layer42 can include a layer of liquid applied flooring 53 or, alternatively,gyp-crete topping, as well as a layer of sound reduction mat 55. Theceiling layer can include a layer of gypsum ceiling board, or acombination of furring channels 71 and a layer of gypsum ceiling board.The stiffening of the flooring system 12 is accomplished byinterconnecting a number of stiffeners 5 resembling deck tracks 2, buthaving varying dimensions. As shown, two horizontally aligned stiffeners5 are dimensioned to receive and are connected to a vertically alignedstiffener 5. The flanges of the horizontally aligned stiffeners 5 areconnected to the deck track 5 along the web of the deck track 5. As anoption, the space formed within the stiffeners 5 can be filled with highcompressive strength grout. Additionally, the flutes of the steel decklayer 40 can be covered by a flute cap 80. This feature can provide animmediate working platform for installers of the flooring system 12.

[0087] The cooperation between flute cap 80 and the flutes of the steeldeck layer 40 is shown in detail in FIGS. 19 and 20. As shown, flute cap80 is T-shaped, wherein the top of the flute cap 80 is flat and is wideenough to rest over the flutes of the steel deck layer 40. The sides ofthe flute cap 80 preferably rest along the sides of the flutes of thesteel deck layer 40, so that when the flute cap 80 is inserted, theflutes of the steel deck layer 40 are effectively sealed. The flute caps80 can extend the length of the steel deck span so that an instantworking platform is provided.

[0088]FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate cross-sectional views of the flooringsystem along non-bearing sidewalls. As shown, the flooring system 12includes steel deck layer 40 between top layer of sheathing 42 andbottom layer of ceiling 70. Sheathing layer 42 can include either alayer of plywood underlayment or a layer of glass fiber reinforcedcement board underlayment. The ceiling layer 70 can include either alayer of gypsum ceiling board or a combination of a layer of gypsumboard and furring channels 71. In this embodiment, the flooring system12 is connected to a balloon framing system 13. Accordingly, thesheathing layer 42 extends beyond the steel deck layer 40 and betweenthe non-bearing sidewalls 18. These non-bearing sidewalls 18 eachinclude track members 19 that are interconnected through the layer ofsheathing 42. The steel deck layer 40 can either be directly connectedto ceiling layer 70 (FIG. 21), or it can alternatively be connected toledger angles 52 (FIG. 22).

[0089] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changesand substitutions can be made to the preferred embodiment hereindescribed with departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention as defined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A flooring system, comprising: a layer of sheathing; a layer of steel deck; and a layer of ceiling, wherein said sheathing layer, said steel deck layer, and said ceiling layer are all interconnected.
 2. A multi-story construction, comprising: a flooring system; a framing system, wherein said flooring system is attached to said framing system; and a roof assembly, wherein said flooring system, said framing system, and said roof assembly are all interconnected.
 3. A method for installing a flooring system, comprising: providing a flooring system; providing a framing system; and connecting said flooring system to said framing system.
 4. A method for constructing a multi-story structure, comprising: providing a flooring system; providing a framing system; connecting said flooring system to said framing system providing a roof assembly; connecting said roof assembly to said framing system.
 5. A kit for constructing a flooring system, comprising: a layer of steel deck; a layer of sheathing; a layer of ceiling; and a plurality of fasteners. 